“The very much-needed family summer holiday might begin stressfully as long tailbacks are inevitable, particularly in the South West on the M5 which is the main conduit to the beaches of Devon and Cornwall,” he said

“The Great British summer holiday getaway begins with an initial rush for the roads this weekend as that’s when the majority of schools break up.

“But unlike any other time of year, the country’s major tourist routes will remain steadily busy through the rest of the six weeks.”

Mr Dennis advised drivers to travel very early in the morning or late in the evening, but accepted this will not be possible for many people.

“If you are one vehicle in the 3.4 million making a leisure journey on Saturday, a healthy dose of patience is going to be required,” he added.

More than 200 sets of roadworks expected to cause delays of at least half an hour are planned by Highways England on motorways and major A-roads.

Much of the work will take place overnight to minimise disruption. The organisation’s chief executive Jim O’Sullivan advised drivers to check their vehicles to avoid basic mechanical problems.

He said: “I want all drivers to arrive at their destinations safely during the summer holidays. We are urging motorists to make sure they are ready to go on their journeys by checking their fuel, tyres and oil. With a few simple checks everyone will be safer.”